Lung Cancer Symptoms in Women and When to See a Doctor – Everyday Health

Lung Cancer Types and Their Relation to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Lung cancer is primarily categorized into two main types: small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Each type is further divided into subtypes, which assists in better diagnosis and treatment planning. Understanding these types and their implications aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, which aims to reduce premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment.

Small-Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC)

SCLC is strongly linked to tobacco smoking, highlighting the importance of SDG 3’s target to strengthen the implementation of the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. Under microscopic examination, SCLC is divided into:

1. Small-cell carcinoma (tumors composed of small cancer cells)
2. Combined small-cell carcinoma (tumors composed of small cancer cells and non-small lung cancer cells)

This classification aids scientific research and informs treatment strategies, contributing to SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure by promoting scientific innovation in healthcare.

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)

NSCLC accounts for approximately 90% of all lung cancer cases. It generally grows more slowly than SCLC and often remains asymptomatic until advanced stages, which poses challenges for early diagnosis and treatment. This underscores the need for improved healthcare access and early detection programs, supporting SDG 3’s goal of ensuring healthy lives for all.

NSCLC is divided into three main subtypes:

• Adenocarcinoma
• Large-cell undifferentiated carcinoma
• Squamous cell lung cancer

Adenocarcinoma

Adenocarcinoma is the most common lung cancer subtype in the United States, representing 45% of cases. It is more prevalent in women and tends to develop predominantly in nonsmokers, although smokers can also be affected. This subtype often begins in the outer parts of the lung, which may delay symptoms such as coughing, leading to later diagnosis when metastatic spread has occurred. This situation highlights the importance of gender-sensitive health interventions and education, aligning with SDG 5: Gender Equality and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities.

Large-Cell Undifferentiated Carcinoma

This subtype constitutes about 10-15% of NSCLC cases. It can originate anywhere in the lung and spreads more rapidly than other NSCLC subtypes. It is strongly associated with cigarette smoking, emphasizing the need for tobacco control policies and public health campaigns in line with SDG 3.

Squamous Cell Lung Cancer

Squamous cell lung cancer typically starts near the main airways in the center of the lung and is also linked to smoking. It is more common among males than females, which calls for targeted prevention and awareness programs to address gender disparities in lung cancer incidence, supporting SDG 5 and SDG 3.

Conclusion

The classification and understanding of lung cancer types are crucial for developing effective treatment and prevention strategies. These efforts contribute directly to achieving several Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3 by promoting health and well-being, SDG 5 by addressing gender-specific health issues, and SDG 9 by fostering innovation in medical research. Continued focus on tobacco control, early diagnosis, and equitable healthcare access remains essential to reduce the global burden of lung cancer.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected to the Issues Highlighted in the Article

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • The article discusses lung cancer types, symptoms, and risk factors, directly relating to health and well-being.
   • Focus on tobacco smoking as a major risk factor connects to prevention and control of non-communicable diseases.
2. SDG 1: No Poverty
   • Though not explicitly mentioned, lung cancer treatment and diagnosis can impact economic stability and poverty reduction efforts.
3. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • The article notes differences in lung cancer prevalence between genders and smoking status, implying health inequalities.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified Based on the Article’s Content

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Target 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment.
   • Target 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including tobacco use.
   • Target 3.8: Achieve universal health coverage, including access to quality essential health-care services and medicines.
2. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • Target 10.2: Empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race or other status.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article to Measure Progress Towards the Identified Targets

1. Incidence and Mortality Rates of Lung Cancer
   • Tracking the number of new lung cancer cases and deaths helps measure progress towards reducing premature mortality (Target 3.4).
2. Prevalence of Tobacco Smoking
   • Monitoring smoking rates is essential to assess progress on prevention and treatment of substance abuse (Target 3.5).
3. Access to Early Diagnosis and Treatment Services
   • Indicators related to availability and accessibility of lung cancer diagnostic and treatment services relate to universal health coverage (Target 3.8).
4. Gender and Demographic Disparities in Lung Cancer Incidence
   • Data on lung cancer prevalence by gender and smoking status can indicate progress in reducing inequalities (Target 10.2).

4. Table: SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: everydayhealth.com